Weigh-in-Motion System Using Horizontal Force Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current weigh-in-motion (WIM) systems are limited in accuracy due to unaccounted dynamic forces and require restrictive conditions such as smooth pavement, no turning or braking, and specific speed ranges, leading to significant errors in vehicle weight measurement.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising rectangular load plates with vertical and horizontal force sensing devices, along with a computer system that processes data to calculate static weights by identifying horizontal and vertical components of the load, allowing for accurate weight measurement of vehicles in motion regardless of speed or maneuvering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional WIM systems use only vertical force sensing devices, then the system complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to unaccounted dynamic forces
Solution Approach 1:
The force sensing system is segmented into two independent components: vertical force sensing devices and horizontal force sensing devices. This segmentation allows each sensor type to measure specific force components separately, improving overall measurement accuracy by accounting for both vertical and horizontal dynamic forces acting on the vehicle during motion
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing system is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both vertical and horizontal force sensing capabilities within the same WIM system. This universal approach enables the system to handle various vehicle maneuvers (acceleration, braking, turning) while maintaining measurement accuracy across different operating conditions
2Measurement precision
If WIM systems require restrictive operating conditions (smooth pavement, no turning/braking, specific speed ranges), then the measurement precision is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts harmful dynamic forces (caused by acceleration, braking, turning, and road irregularities) into beneficial measurement information by using horizontal force sensing devices to detect and quantify these forces. This allows the system to maintain accuracy even when vehicles perform maneuvers that were previously considered sources of error
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static measurement approach (requiring vehicles to stop or maintain constant speed) to a dynamic measurement approach that actively compensates for motion-related forces. The horizontal force sensors enable the system to adapt to changing vehicle states and road conditions in real-time, maintaining accuracy across varying speeds and maneuvers
3Measurement precision
If WIM systems account for oscillations in a single dimension, then the measurement precision is partially improved, but the ease of operation remains restricted due to requirements for low constant speeds with no turning
Solution Approach 1:
The system extends measurement capability from a single vertical dimension to multiple dimensions by incorporating horizontal force sensing devices. This dimensional expansion allows the system to capture forces in both vertical and horizontal directions, enabling accurate weight measurement even when vehicles are turning or experiencing lateral accelerations
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides accurate weight measurements within one percent or better for various types of vehicles under different operating conditions, eliminating the need for prior knowledge of vehicle attributes and allowing for real-time monitoring and inspection.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of vertical force sensing devices, wherein a vertical force sensing device is located below the rectangular load plate adjacent to each of four corners of the rectangular load plate
Implementation Method 2
a set of horizontal force sensing devices located below the rectangular load plate
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
A solution for evaluating an object, which accounts for various motion-related dynamic forces is provided. In an embodiment, the object is a vehicle and the evaluation includes determining a set of static weights corresponding to the vehicle as it moves through a sensing element. The sensing element can include a load plate with vertical force sensing devices and horizontal force sensing devices located below the load plate. Analysis of measurement data acquired by the force sensing devices can enable calculation of the set of static weights corresponding to the vehicle.